The Snead State Community College Fishing Team continues to make waves on the national stage, as two of its anglers have climbed to the top of the country in collegiate competition.

The duo of Mason George of Albertville and Walker Griffith of Ashville finished the season ranked No. 1 in the nation in the Southern Collegiate Open Angler of the Year standings, placing them ahead of competitors from colleges and universities across the United States.

The top ranking follows a strong performance at the recent Southern Collegiate Bass Open Series tournament held March 13 on Lake Martin, where George and Griffith finished sixth overall in a highly competitive field. Teammates Caron Floyd and Jarred Bodine, both of Guntersville, also contributed to the team’s success with an 11th-place finish in the same tournament.

Collegiate bass fishing has grown to include more than 600 teams participating across multiple major tournament circuits. Rankings such as Angler of the Year standings are considered a key benchmark in the sport, rewarding consistent high finishes against large fields and helping determine the nation’s most successful anglers over the course of a season.

“This ranking is a big deal because it reflects consistency at a national level,” said team sponsor Dr. Tom Warren. “These anglers are competing against some of the best collegiate fishermen in the country, and to be No. 1 shows the level of dedication and skill they bring to every tournament.”

George credited preparation and teamwork for the pair’s success. “We’ve put in a lot of time on the water, and it’s paying off. Being ranked No. 1 is exciting, but we’re focused on keeping that momentum going.”

“It means a lot to see our hard work recognized,” Griffith said. “We’re proud to represent Snead State and compete at this level.”